EXCEPTIONALITY

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Transcript of EXCEPTIONALITY

Developmental Disabilities: Autism Sprectrum Disorder & Down SyndromeHow are they defined?Optional resourcesDOWN SYNDROME (DS) or TRISOMY 21Snapshot Preview(Nouns) Autism and Down SyndromeThe Lucky Few ... meet Mildred PearlHow are these disabilities identified?Best practices for educationConsiderations: Current trends/issuesBest Practices --Finding What WorksResearch has shown that therapies focusing on behavior and communication can be helpful

Some drugs may also reduce specific related symptoms, but no medications have been federally approved for treating the main symptoms of autism

The earlier autism is diagnosed, the sooner specific therapy can begin

“Because autism is such a complicateddisorder, no one therapy fits everyone.” — Dr. Connie Kasari, child development expert at UCLAEarly Indicators and Diagnoses Down Syndrome: can be detected in uteroor soon after baby's birthChorionic villus sampling (CVS) of material from the placenta

These tests look for changes in the chromosomes that may indicate a Down syndrome diagnosis

** At birth it is not possible to tell the level of intelligence a baby with DS will haveThe Lucky FewOn a final noteCondition in which a child is born with an extra chromosome, which is a small "package" of genes in the body. Babies are typically born with 46 chromosomes.Those with Down Syndrome have an extra copy of one of these gene "packages," specifically Chromosome 21.The medical term for having an extra copy of a chromosome is ‘trisomy’ ... hence Trisomy 21 (T-21).For your Consideration:Trends and IssuesA little extra helpAutistic students have been provided with:Seating away from windows (thunder can be alarming)Modifications for assignmentsSpecial accommodations with instructionsA great video to help students learn about how we're not very different after allMany websites and groups are accessible as a support and resource for parents of children with special needsCheck with your district! See what's available to educatorsFor your information ...MILDRED PEARLBorn May 28, 2015, at 6:01 pm6 lbs., 15 oz. ... 19 in. long* initially in NICU for respiratory distress, but otherwise healthy and HAPPYOverall statistics show a 1 in 285 chance of babies being born with Down Syndrome ... Mom's prenatal tests showed Millie's chances of the developmental disability were 1 in 11Disability that may cause significant social, communication and behavioral challengesThere are no physical indicators, but those with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from many othersLearning, thinking, as well as problem-solving abilities range from gifted to severely challengedAUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) Autism Spectrum Disorder can be diagnosed via two assessmentsDevelopmental Screening — a short test that helps assess whether children are learning basic skills when they should, or if they might have delays

Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation — a thorough review that may include looking at the child’s behavior and development, an interview with parent(s), as well as a hearing and vision screening, genetic testing, neurological testing, and other medical testing** Now includes several conditions that were once individually diagnosed: autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger syndromeAUTISMWhat Works (continued)Intelligence in individuals with Down Syndrome ranges from low normal to very slow to learn

All areas of development including motor skills, language, intellectual abilities, and social and adaptive skills are followed closely in children who have been diagnosed with Down Syndrome

Early referral, since birth, to an early intervention program will help enhance development

Educational programs for children with Down syndrome include physical, occupational, speech and educational therapiesDOWN SYNDROMEVarious alternative treatments for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder have been explored. Included are: Hyperbaric oxygen treatmentsChelationSupplementsTherapy activities (using horses, dolphins, dance, hugs, art, and/or music)Inclusion is an ongoing goal within social and educational spectra.